**Hilary Duff Responds to Ashley Tisdale’s “Toxic” Mum Group Claims: “It’s Not True”**
In a recent episode of the *Call Her Daddy* podcast, Hilary Duff spoke candidly about her feelings regarding Ashley Tisdale’s controversial essay published in *The Cut*. Tisdale’s piece, which went viral last month, detailed her experience in a celebrity mum group that she labelled as “toxic.” Duff, who was named in the context of the group, expressed her dismay over the allegations, marking her first significant response to the unfolding drama.
Duff’s Emotional Reaction
During a conversation with podcast host Alex Cooper, Duff articulated her sadness upon reading Tisdale’s comments. “I felt really sad. I honestly felt really sad,” she shared, revealing that the essay took her by surprise. The former Disney Channel star, known for her roles in *Lizzie McGuire* and *Younger*, emphasised that motherhood has been a journey filled with supportive relationships. Thus, she found Tisdale’s assertions difficult to accept.
“It sucks to read something that’s, like, not true,” Duff continued, reflecting on the impact of such public claims on all the women involved. “And it sucks on behalf of, like, six women in all of their lives.” Her statement demonstrates a commitment to her friendships while highlighting the emotional toll that such accusations can inflict.
The Support of Matthew Koma
Hilary’s husband, Matthew Koma, also weighed in on the situation, showcasing his support in a rather humorous fashion. Following Tisdale’s essay, Koma shared a satirical magazine cover on social media that poked fun at the drama, with the

During the podcast, Duff expressed her amusement at Koma’s post, admitting she had no prior knowledge of his plans. “Honestly, everything he does makes me laugh,” she remarked, adding that she appreciates his fierce loyalty. “I don’t censor him, and I don’t tell him what he can and can’t post. He is so, like, fierce for me, and, like, I love him for that.”
Tisdale’s Perspective on the Group Dynamics
In her essay, Tisdale recounted her initial joy at finding camaraderie among fellow mothers after the birth of her daughter, Jupiter, in 2021. However, she described a shift in the group’s dynamic, claiming she felt “frozen out” and “excluded.” Reflecting on the experience, she likened the atmosphere to that of high school cliques, revealing that feelings of isolation were exacerbated by social media. “I remember being left out of a couple of group hangs, and I knew about them because Instagram made sure it fed me every single photo and Instagram Story,” she wrote.
Despite Tisdale’s grievances, Duff’s portrayal of her own experiences suggests a stark contrast to the narrative put forth in the essay. The disparity raises questions about the complexities of social dynamics within such tightly-knit circles.
Why it Matters
The unfolding dialogue between Hilary Duff and Ashley Tisdale shines a light on the pressures faced by public figures, particularly mothers navigating the often fraught landscape of parenthood and friendship. In an age where personal stories can rapidly gain traction online, the impact of one individual’s narrative can reverberate through a community, reshaping relationships and reputations. As these conversations continue, they underscore the importance of open dialogue and the need to address misunderstandings, particularly in a world where social media often amplifies perceptions over reality.
